“My older brother used to do custom airbrushing and painting in Seattle, which gave me the bug to work on cars,” Fleming said, owner of Fleming’s Body and Paint.

Fleming has spent most of his life developing his knowledge and skills in the automotive industry, from writing estimates to hammering out dents to wielding a paint gun. Over the years, his small home shop grew to occupy a 17,500 sq. ft. building in Salem before deciding to open his second shop in Stayton.

“I’ve always been drawn to small town community and saw potential here in Stayton, personally and professionally,” he said.

“I firmly believe in establishing relationships with people, and places like Stayton give you opportunities to really get to know the people you serve.”

Fleming said he ran into a few snags while working on the Stayton shop, which he plans to open by the end of April.

“We’re in the process of slowly renovating the Stayton shop to keep up with industry standards,” he said. “Cars are evolving and therefore we have to move with that. It’s a work in progress, but we are excited for the challenge.”

Once open, seniors and veterans will receive a discount on top of the shop’s competitive pricing, Fleming said.

Working on cars gives Fleming a sense of accomplishment, “But greater than that, I see it as an opportunity to make friends and provide a needed service.”

“In life, many things tend to get in the way of what matters most, and I feel as though providing the quality work we do gives assurance to families and frees up some space for them to do what matters most,” Fleming said. “Repairing a car to safety standards and knowing I’ve provided some peace of mind fulfills me.”

Dedicated to “quality work, genuine care and industry trainings,” his team members challenge each other to be better versions of themselves, with integrity and home-grown values at the core, Fleming said.

“I’m a firm believer in treating others the way I want to be treated and when I’m entrusting something as important as transportation and safety to someone, I want to know I’m in good hands,” he said. “We currently have a crew of eight between our Salem and Stayton locations, and are looking to hire more soon.”

Married to his wife, Sharon, for 33 years, Fleming said he puts “God first, family second, and everything else ties for third.” The couple has two grown daughters and, Fleming adds, “three grandkids which are my world.”

“I have already felt the warm welcome of the community here in Stayton,” Fleming said. “We look forward to serving you and becoming a part of your family in April 2017.”

Fleming’s Body and Paint will offer a full array of services, free estimates, pick-up and delivery, and weekend appointments. Regular hours will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The shop is located at 240 E. Water St. For information, call503-769-3291.